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Big Changes Are Coming to UK & European Travel in 2025—Here’s What You Need to Know

Updated: May 23




At Jet Set Black Travel, we stay ahead of the curve so you can travel smarter. If Europe or the UK is on your 2025 travel wish list, then buckle up—some major policy shifts are on the horizon, and they could affect how you plan and budget your trip.


In a recent article, "The Big Changes Coming to the UK & European Travel in 2025," journalist Lynn Brown outlines some significant updates that travelers—especially U.S. citizens—need to be aware of. For decades, Americans and nationals from visa-exempt countries could breeze through European borders without much paperwork. That’s changing.


What’s Changing?


Starting in 2025, U.S. citizens and others who previously didn’t need a visa will now be required to obtain entry authorization before traveling to the UK and countries in the Schengen Area. This process includes:

  • An online application

  • A processing fee

  • Biometric verification (think facial recognition and fingerprinting)

  • A waiting period (approval could take anywhere from a few hours to three days)


This move is part of a broader trend toward digitizing border security and streamlining travel oversight across nations.


What Does This Mean for Jetsetters?


While some travelers may welcome the enhanced efficiency and perceived safety, others are raising eyebrows—especially when it comes to privacy and affordability.

On the tech side, the incorporation of biometric data into border security has sparked ongoing debates. Advocates say it’s the future of secure travel. Critics worry it gives governments and corporations too much access to personal data under the guise of public safety.

And then there's the issue of cost. Even if the application fee is modest, every additional expense adds up—especially for families, students, or travelers from lower-income backgrounds. Could this new requirement become a barrier to entry for some?


Our Take at Jet Set Black Travel

Here’s where we land on the issue: Travel is always evolving, and so are the systems that govern it. For travelers who have the means and are comfortable with digital verification, this will likely be a minor adjustment. If you’re financially prepared and don’t mind biometric scans, your vacation plans probably won’t miss a beat.

But for others, these changes may present challenges—whether it’s a matter of budget, values, or personal comfort with data collection. It’s important to know your limits, respect your preferences, and plan ahead. We encourage our community to weigh their options and make empowered, informed decisions about international travel.


Stay Informed. Travel Intentionally.

As policies shift and digital tools redefine the travel experience, Jet Set Black Travel is committed to helping you navigate it all with confidence. We’ll keep you updated on the latest changes, offer insight on how to prepare, and make sure your journeys remain joyful, accessible, and enriching.

Ready for Europe in 2025? Let’s make it happen—on your terms.





—Jet Set Black Travel Team

 
 
 

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